Decompression Season

It’s October now! So, what are we to do with the energy, momentum, and creativity born out of Black Rock City? How do we put our learnings from BRC into action? Community gatherings and events are one pathway, and a very popular one this season. With over 80 annual Official Regional Events taking place across five continents, it’s fair to say that the global community is alive and well!

For those that ventured to Black Rock City this summer, the change of seasons and arrival of fall is often met by the responsibility and privilege of unpacking. Unpacking not only dusty gear and boxes, but experiences. The work of processing your Burning Man experience and embodying the ups and downs of your personal decompression can be hard work. For some, returning to daily routines and responsibilities may come easily; others may experience waves of disorientation and flashbacks to life in Black Rock City. If you’re missing the dust, there are a myriad of ways to connect with fellow Burners this fall!

Official Regional Events range from one day urban burns, to week long gatherings in the mountains, to beach cleanups, and civic art events. While there’s an array of events taking place across the Burner diaspora, right now is undoubtedly Decompression season. When I asked $teven Ra$pa, Burning Man’s Community Events Producer and artist extraordinaire, why we host Decompressions, he said:

“Decompressions started as a way for us to celebrate and cope with challenges of re-entry. Along the way they have become cultural showcases and a way to bring what we love about our culture to our year-round cities and unite “Home” with where we live. For me, they offer proof that we can bring some of what we love about our temporary cities to our year-round lives and communities.”

Namiko "Koko" Uno is the Regional Network Coordinator at Burning Man Project, where she supports a thriving network of events and activities around the world. She's made her way to San Francisco by way of Los Angeles, England, New York, and Zambia. She has an ever-expanding love of people, early mornings, and hot cups of tea.